This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that everyone loves! It features ground beef, tender pasta, and a melty cheese topping that will make you smile.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s perfect for busy nights. I often make extra so I can enjoy leftovers—there’s just something about that cheesy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat or even turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based ground meat or lentils instead.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles work wonderfully, but you can swap them with any pasta you have—like rotini or penne. Gluten-free pasta also works if you’re avoiding gluten!
Cheddar Cheese: I love the classic flavor of sharp cheddar, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses can give a different twist. Vegan cheese is another option if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is super convenient. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can crush them or use crushed tomatoes instead. For a kick, add a bit of salsa!
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Stays Moist?
Keeping your casserole moist is important for great texture! Here are tips to help:
- Don’t skip the water or broth. It adds moisture. Use beef broth for extra richness or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking. This helps steam and keeps in the moisture, then remove for the last part so the cheese can get nice and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if using onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for prep time, plus about 25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you can have this cheesy, comforting casserole ready in around 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes perfectly while you’re preparing the ingredients.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Prepare the egg noodles by cooking them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
3. Sauté the Onions:
If you’re using onions, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
4. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet (along with the onions if you used them). Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
5. Add the Flavor:
Now, stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, water or beef broth, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to combine all those delicious flavors.
6. Combine with Noodles:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the flavorful beef mixture. Gently stir until everything is well mixed.
7. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Transfer the mix into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to dish out! Enjoy your warm, cheesy hamburger casserole with your family and friends!
This simple, comforting recipe is ideal for family meals, and you can definitely toss in some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great in this recipe and can make the dish a bit lighter. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can substitute them with any pasta type you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture in the casserole.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas can boost the flavor and nutrition of your casserole. Just sauté them along with the onions or mix them in with the beef before assembling the casserole.
